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For Bellingham to aims to force his way once again into the English best team, it would be smart to cut out the nonsense. His reaction when he saw that the substitute board was going up after an evening of uneven play in the match against Albania was unacceptable.

"I’d rather not blow it out of proportion but I stick to my words 'attitude matters' and respect towards the teammates who substitute on," commented the coach. "Decisions are made and you need to comply as a player."

Bellingham has to learn. There was no call for a strop. Kane had only moments earlier made it England leading by two in a meaningless qualifier, the game had six minutes to go and he, after a below-par performance, received a caution for bringing down an opponent. This could scarcely be called a questionable change. Actually it might have been reckless for the manager to leave Bellingham on considering there was a risk he would rule himself out of the opening game of the competition by picking up a second caution.

Turning the Spotlight Upon Himself

However, the player made himself the center of attention. No one could overlook the player's annoyance upon understanding that his replacement was ready for another player. He threw his arms up and while he shook Tuchel’s hand while heading to the sideline there was no doubt that Tuchel was not impressed.

This represents the hurdle facing Bellingham. He applauded his teammate for providing the assist for the captain to nod home the team's second, but everything else was harmful to his cause. It is not as if arguing was going to change Tuchel’s mind. Tuchel has talked so much about following squad protocols and the necessity of showing proper conduct.

Facing Examination

Bellingham, omitted from the previous squad, has been under scrutiny after returning to the squad this month. In effect he has been on trial and he hasn't helped his case through his behavior to being taken off as England completed a flawless qualification run by seeing off a feisty challenge from the Albanian team.

The System and the Setup

It means it's unclear on how the team operate most effectively including Bellingham. The performance was not definitive. Some new ideas were tested from Tuchel at the start. He has given the team a clear system over the past few matches, employing a No 6, a No 8, an attacking midfielder and dedicated wide players, but there was a different feel in this match. The young defender was handed his international debut, the midfielder made his first start at this level and the use of Stones as a part-time midfielder gave a faint echo to City's 2023 treble winners.

Inconsistent Display

Bellingham had ups and downs. He set up a shot for Eze in the latter period but at times seemed trying too hard. He made many hurried and errant passes. A pointless clash with an Albania midfielder in the early stages. England were ragged during most of the second period. One Albania chance followed Bellingham squandered possession. His caution was shown after he was dispossessed from Broja and brought down Broja.

Squad Strength Shows

Finally England’s depth made the difference. The coach brought on Foden, who appeared more comfortable to the role in which Bellingham operated in the opening period, and Bukayo Saka. Later Saka provided a set-piece for the captain to score the first goal. This served as a reminder that dead-ball situations will play a key role at the World Cup.

Connection Remains

However, the focus was on Bellingham. The excellence of Rashford's cross for the second goal was partly forgotten amid the drama of the substitution incident. When the match concluded, the focus was on him. Tuchel came over behind him and pushed the Real Madrid midfielder towards the English fans. The bond between them is not damaged. The coach isn't ready to abandon him at this stage. But if Tuchel is inclined to give him a starring role remains in doubt.